By Milcah Tanimu
In preparation for the Edo Gubernatorial Election 2024, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, arrived in Benin City on September 9, 2024. His visit is crucial to overseeing the final preparations, ensuring that all systems are ready for the gubernatorial election scheduled for September 21, 2024.
Prof. Yakubu’s itinerary began with mock accreditation exercises at key locations in Benin City, aimed at testing the efficiency of the accreditation process. He also conducted thorough assessments of INEC’s local government offices, including those in Ikpoba Okha, Egor, Oredo, and Ovia North East, to evaluate their readiness for the Edo Gubernatorial Election 2024.
Timidi Wariowei, the Edo State INEC Head of Voter Education and Publicity, confirmed that Yakubu’s visit also involves critical meetings with the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security, as well as consultations with local stakeholders, political parties, and INEC staff.
On Wednesday, Yakubu will continue his engagement with local authorities by visiting the Oba of Benin’s palace, followed by a stakeholder meeting to address any last-minute concerns. The visit will culminate on Thursday with the signing of a peace accord by all participating political parties, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful election process.
Throughout his visit, Yakubu has emphasized that security and logistical readiness are paramount for the **Edo Gubernatorial Election 2024**. His inspections of non-sensitive election materials in various local government areas have so far met his expectations, as he expressed satisfaction with the ongoing preparations.
Further inspections and mock accreditation exercises will continue to ensure that all systems are functioning optimally, guaranteeing a smooth and transparent election process on September 21, 2024.
